There’s a certain mystique around the waxing cabins at biathlon events, where technicians work late into the night and are up before the sun – all to gain precious seconds out of the bases of skis. Races may be won or lost on the track. But it’s the technicians who put rockets on the skis. Today on Heartbeat, we join the legendary Fede Fontana of U.S. Biathlon as he takes us inside the magic, sharing stories of his decades of experience in the sport.

While he lives today in Bavaria, Fontana hails from the Frassinoro, Italy, in the Modena area. This tiny village has produced more than its share of ski technicians over the years – a source of great pride to the region.

Fontana has served the athletes of U.S. Biathlon for over a decade. He and his team of technicians put the magic into the skis, while also serving as the team’s general manager.

In this episode, we’ll learn how turning out fast skis is a year-round job, from springtime and summer ski selection with the factories, to fine-tuning on snow during the season. Listen in to learn just how many pairs of skis for each athlete are packed into vans as the tour heads from race to race.

And check out Heartbeat’s past episodes with U.S. Biathlon General Manager Fede Fontana. Now let’s join Fede coming to us live from Nove Mesto as the team prepares for the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Antholz.

PAST EPISODES

Farewell to Fluorocarbons - Nov. 2023

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7nFkFX0cLVPytUHLloyYTl?si=5961825689824051

Fede Fontana: Inside the Wax Cabin - Jan. 2023

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4UP70osdKOxcCp3E889Fn0?si=8984636a13e04eae